Bachelor of Arts with Honours Validated Programme

Graphic Design
& Media

Study Graphic Design & Media in English at Marbella Design Academy in sunny Spain and be awarded a UK Bachelor of Arts with Honours degree in Graphic Design & Media by our UK partner, the University of Bedfordshire.

Missed the September intake? Start in January and graduate in 2.5 years with our Accelerated Programme.

Graphic design is one of the most far-reaching creative design disciplines. Graphic designers create visual representations of ideas and messages using type, symbols, layout and images.

More than ever, within this lively and competitive design industry sector, professional visual communicators require the skills to present design solutions in increasingly imaginative ways. Also, creative people make a valuable contribution to society as catalysts for positive social, political and cultural change.

Marbella Design Academy’s Graphic Design & Media BA (Hons) Validated Programme, offers you the chance to explore graphic design through a variety of traditional and especially digital media. This innovative validated programme provides you with all the skills you need to succeed in your future career as a professional graphic designer and visual communicator.

Additionally, you will benefit from culturally diverse experienced tutors who will provide you with an international and wide perspective on the profession and the industry.

Our students achieve high professional standards and our Graphic Design department produces graduates who are well-versed in all aspects of the design process, both technical and creative, enabling them to seamlessly transition into the international industry.

Our BA Accelerated programme is now open for registration

If you missed the September intake, you can start your BA Validated programme in January 2026. This accelerated programme allows you to graduate in just 2.5 years without losing a year.

This programme provides a condensed and comprehensive start. You will begin your studies in January and complete your entire first year by August. Our curriculum has been specially designed to cover the same rigorous material as the September intake, ensuring that you are fully prepared.

In September, you will confidently join our second-year students, fully integrated into the main BA (Hons) programme. There’s no need to “catch up”—you’ll be right on track.

Our January Accelerated Programme offers a strategic path to achieving a world-class design education without losing a year.

To join the BA Accelerated Programme, please apply using the January intake date.

Why should you study Graphic Design & Media at Marbella Design Academy?

Our curriculum is based around holistic project-based teaching that emphasises a multidisciplinary approach to design practice informed by research and analysis.

You will develop skills in design thinking, design software, advertising, photography, editorial design, printing, digital publishing, packaging, video, motion graphics, UI/UX and many subjects within the context of visual communication.

Being a graphic designer is a wonderful profession full of creativity and exciting assignments.

As they say: “Do what you love, and you will never work a day in your life”.

Validations and state recognitions

After graduation from Marbella Design Academy, you are awarded your official BA (Hons) degree in Graphic Design & Media, validated and awarded by the University of Bedfordshire (UK).

The Bachelor of Arts (Honours) degree awarded by the University of Bedfordshire are a fully accredited and internationally recognised qualification. They are UK honours degree, regulated by the Office for Students (OfS) quality assessment body for Higher Education.

When awarded your official BA (Hons) degree in Graphic Design & Media, you can apply for a Master’s Degree at University of Bedfordshire or any other University of your choice.

More about our Graphic Design programme

Ellen andersin typography kaikufont banner b - Marbella Design Academy

Graphic Design student testimonial by Vilma O.

Graphic Design & Media Showreel 2025

Next available intakes are:

07th January 2026

21st September 2026

Tuition Language: English

Duration: 3 Years

Schedule: Full-time tuition schedule

Application form Contact Us online BROCHURE

Bachelor of Arts degree by University of Bedfordshire - Marbella Design School

When awarded your undergraduate Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Bedfordshire, you can apply for our Master’s Validated Programme in Innovative Design, or for any Master’s programme at any university of your choice.

Study Plan & Material list

General Information

Duration: 3 years, 6 hours daily (Monday to Friday) Language: English

Credits: 360CP in the UK = 180 ECTS points

Calendar: Our first-year courses commence in September and January each year.
Our second and third-year courses begin in September.

Fees

15.000€ total fee per academic year*

This three-year Bachelor of Arts with Honours validated Interior Architecture & Design programme offered to our students is developed, delivered and assessed by Marbella Design Academy and Validated by the University of Bedfordshire.

Upon successful completion, you will be awarded a Bachelor of Arts with Honours Degree, in Interior Architecture & Design by our UK partner, the University of Bedfordshire.

* The fee is made up of a yearly tuition fee of 12.000€ and administration fee of 3.000€

Graphic Design & Media validated programme

Total – days – hours and CORE credits during the 3 years of study (Holidays are not included in this calculation).

1st Year, 1200 hours incl: lectures, direct, independent study – 120 CORE CREDITS

2nd Year, 1200 hours incl: lectures, direct, independent study – 120 CORE CREDITS

3rd Year, 1200 hours incl: lectures, direct, independent study – 120 CORE CREDITS

In total for all 3 years of study: Approx. 3.600 hours incl. lectures, direct and independent study:

360 CORE CREDITS (UK) = 180 ECTS Points (60 ECTS points per academic year)

STUDY PLAN – 1ST YEAR

120 Credits = 60 ECTS points. In total for all 3 years of study: 360 CORE CREDITS (UK) = 180 ECTS Points (60 ECTS points per academic year)

LEVEL 4

Fundamentals of Design

Fundamentals of Creative Design
Explores the creative process and its stages of development leading to a final concept. Students engage in creative thinking, visual mind mapping, and the transformation of abstract ideas into coherent visual outcomes. Emphasis is placed on understanding form, composition, and communication through iterative design practice.

History of Art
Provides an overview of key artistic periods from prehistory to the present, examining how art has reflected cultural and social change. Develops analytical and research skills through critical observation and comparative study.

Graphic Design Principles
Introduces the essential principles of visual communication, including hierarchy, balance, contrast, rhythm, and modularity. Students apply these principles through practical exercises using relevant and up-to-date design software and techniques.

History of Graphic Design

Examines the evolution of graphic design from its origins to postmodernism and contemporary digital practices. Encourages critical reflection on how design responds to technological, cultural, and social contexts.

Design Applications

Brand Visual Communication
Introduces the foundations of branding and identity design. Students explore how visual language communicates brand values and influences audience perception.

Graphic Expression Techniques 1
Focuses on visual storytelling through composition, imagery, and metaphor. Students develop expressive communication skills through experimentation with contemporary digital tools.

Editorial Design
Develops understanding of typography, layout, and publication design. Students learn to structure visual narratives and organise complex content for print and digital formats.

Digital Graphic Skills 1
Builds technical proficiency through the use of relevant and industry-standard design software, enhancing students’ confidence in digital workflows and production processes.

Design Projects

Project 1
Applies theoretical and technical skills to conceptual design briefs addressing topics such as identity, sustainability, and globalisation. Students explore a range of media and processes to develop original, contextually aware design outcomes.

Collaborative Multidisciplinary Practice 1
Encourages teamwork through cross-disciplinary projects, enhancing communication, leadership, and empathy skills essential for professional collaboration.

Final Project 1

Final Project & Portfolio 1
A self-directed project consolidating all creative and technical skills developed during the year. Students research, conceptualise, and produce a professional design outcome such as a visual identity, campaign, or editorial system.

The module culminates in a curated digital portfolio that demonstrates creative process, technical competence, and critical awareness of the designer’s role in contemporary visual culture.

STUDY PLAN – 2ND YEAR

120 Credits = 60 ECTS points. In total for all 3 years of study: 360 CORE CREDITS (UK) = 180 ECTS Points (60 ECTS points per academic year)

LEVEL 5

Graphic expression

Print & Design Production
Explores the relationship between concept, material, and process in printed and digital outcomes. Students learn about production workflows, formats, and finishes to deliver professional-standard design pieces.

Design Systems
Introduces modular thinking and visual consistency across complex design systems. Students develop structured design languages applicable to branding, editorial, and digital environments.

Motion Design 1
Introduces time-based communication and visual movement as part of the design process. Students explore narrative, rhythm, and transition through short motion sequences.

Design Strategies 1
Focuses on strategic thinking within the design process. Students learn to plan, test, and evaluate design outcomes based on audience, purpose, and context.

Digital Interfaces & Interaction

Explores the principles of interaction and user experience design. Students prototype interfaces using relevant and up-to-date design tools to create functional and engaging digital experiences.

Design Communication

Graphic Expression Techniques 2
Develops advanced visual communication techniques through conceptual experimentation and applied creativity. Students refine their ability to convey meaning, mood, and tone across diverse media.

Multimedia & Communication
Explores cross-platform communication and integrated media strategies. Students combine imagery, typography, and motion to design cohesive narratives across digital and print environments.

Digital Graphic Skills 2
Expands technical proficiency in design production, focusing on workflow efficiency and creative experimentation using contemporary digital tools and processes.

Design Projects 2

Project 2
Applies research, strategy, and technical execution to more complex design briefs. Students address real-world issues through projects that combine conceptual innovation with professional presentation.

Collaborative Multidisciplinary Practice 2

Builds on teamwork skills developed in the previous year. Students engage in larger-scale collaborative projects that simulate industry practice, emphasising leadership, adaptability, and communication.

Final Project & Portfolio 2

A self-directed module that consolidates the creative, technical, and strategic skills acquired during the second year. Students develop a substantial design outcome demonstrating clear conceptual development and professional production values.

The module culminates in a refined digital portfolio showcasing design versatility, process documentation, and readiness for advanced study or professional practice.

STUDY PLAN – 3RD YEAR

120 Credits = 60 ECTS points. In total for all 3 years of study: 360 CORE CREDITS (UK) = 180 ECTS Points (60 ECTS points per academic year)

LEVEL 6

Graphic Design Practice

Creative Typography
Explores typographic form as a central element of visual communication. Students experiment with expressive, functional, and conceptual uses of type across different media and contexts.

Studio Practice
Simulates a professional studio environment where students manage design briefs independently and collaboratively. Emphasis is placed on time management, creative direction, and professional communication.

Motion Design 2
Develops advanced motion and time-based design skills. Students integrate sound, movement, and narrative to produce visually engaging and conceptually coherent motion pieces.

Design Strategies 2
Focuses on research-driven and strategic design approaches. Students formulate, test, and refine ideas in response to complex design challenges, preparing for self-directed and client-based projects.

Multimedia Design
Encourages experimentation across media platforms. Students combine image, text, sound, and interaction to design immersive and contemporary communication experiences using relevant and up-to-date digital tools.

Design Projects 3

Project 3
Provides the opportunity to apply accumulated creative, technical, and critical skills to a substantial design brief. Projects encourage originality, strategic thinking, and conceptual depth, addressing contemporary social, cultural, or environmental themes.

Final Mayor Project

Final Major Project & Portfolio
Represents the culmination of the BA (Hons) programme. Students undertake an extensive, self-initiated design project that demonstrates conceptual maturity, technical excellence, and a clear personal identity as a designer.

Professional Practices

Professional Practices
Prepares students for entry into the design industry or postgraduate study. The module includes portfolio refinement, presentation skills, personal branding, and professional documentation to support transition into professional practice.

Laptop (portable computer, NOT a tablet), PC or Apple™ MacBook Pro

We recommend you to buy a laptop with sufficient RAM memory (at least 18GB/36GB) and a powerful graphic card. We recommend a 16-inch screen.
Graphic tablets and stylus are optional.
External Hard Disk (recommended capacity: 1TB)
USB memory stick (recommended capacity: 64GB)
USB-C to USB/HDMI adapter (Only needed for Apple™ computers)

Computer Programmes. Please make sure you get the license for the software needed:

Adobe Creative Cloud – student version
Microsoft Office – student version (optional)

Throughout the duration of your course, it will be necessary for you to acquire certain materials. We anticipate that the expenditure will be around 450€ to 500€.

Items for which you will be responsible for covering costs include:

Drawing materials
Typography & calligraphy sundries
Printing
Field trips

*The information above is for guidance only. Exact costs may vary.

More Details

tuition fees entry requirements international student accommodation Application form

Testimonials

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Vilma Olson testimonial - Marbella Design School

“I really liked the Graphic Design programme. The briefs are not strict, and you can really do what you want do, and orient them to what you want to do in the future. I like illustration and I could include it in all my projects somehow, and practice on that. It was really nice to have the freedom to do so. My fear, when I entered the school was that I didn´t know any software, but we learnt After Effects, Photoshop, Illustrator, Glyphs for typeface… so many that I didn´t think I could learn [them all] in such a short time. I am super grateful for that. You don´t need to have any previous knowledge about them before you come here.
”

Vilma Olsson from Sweden

BA (Hons) Graphic Design & Media

My experience at Marbella Design Academy was eye-opening. The Graphic Design course was awesome in regards to the content we were learning and it allowed me to explore various avenues of graphic design and develop my skills through the different software we were introduced to. The educators are friendly and insightful and their approach to projects and presentations allowed me to overcome my fear of public speaking. The educators allowed me to express my style through each and every project while maintaining the correct rules and professionalism needed in the final results. I was able to meet people and make new friends from all over the world with different cultures and backgrounds which enhanced the experience. I am also grateful for the Spanish classes offered by the Academy.

Ayrton Dos Santos

BA (Hons) Graphic Design & Media

Like layouts coming together in Adobe inDesign, my three years at Marbella Design Academy shaped me into who I am today.
As someone who studied art in high school, I can tell you design to me goes beyond art: it’s a creation that’s not only easy on the eye but has a purpose.
Just like the goal of creation of any design, Marbella Design Academy helped me find my own purpose and path in student life. The amazing guidance from the educators went beyond task work and project help, I was guided how to be confident, defend my work, be proud of it, speak up, yet always be aware of the possibility of improvement and self development.
All of the qualities and experience I got was an essential key to personal and professional growth to start my career as a graphic designer.

Sofya Koroleva – Russian

BA (Hons) Graphic Design & Media

Being at Marbella Design Academy was a welcoming and fun experience. I met people from all over the world sharing the same passion.
Learning about graphic design was a challenge but one the teachers made enjoyable. They expressed their passion through teaching making me wanting to learn more.
Being at Marbella Design Academy helped me grow my skills and explore new opportunities.

Leah Augustus

BA (Hons) Graphic Design & Media

As of today, I’m officially graduating with a Bachelor Degree. I’ve set foot to 3 different continents. I can speak 3 different languages. I’ve made friends with so many different people from all over the world. I’ve learned and done some amazing stuff that I never knew I could do.
And I’m so proud of what I’ve managed to achieve.

Minh Tran – Vietnam

BA (Hons) Graphic Design & Media

Three years later and I finally got my Bachelor in Graphic Design, thanks Marbella Design Academy for this time.
I had the best years and I am so grateful for everything!

Andrea Jansson – Sweden

BA (Hons) in Graphic Design & Media

Iðunn Ásgeirsdóttir - Marbella Design School

Today is my graduation day. I’ve waited so long for today, yet we could not have our usual big Graduation Party I had hoped for due to Covid19. I have worked hard every day, and I’m extremely proud of myself and my fellow students. Thank you Marbella Design Academy for these wonderful 3 years. It’s been such an educating yet fun experience that I wouldn’t trade for anything! And a huge shout out to my wonderful teachers who know how to make education fun, interesting and above all, motivate you to become the best designer possible.
I’m looking forward to the future, full of hope and positivity. After my Graduation, I have gladly accepted a position as Tutor Assistance at Marbella Design Academy

Iðunn Ásgeirsdóttir – Iceland

BA (Hons) Graphic Design & Media

Savannah Moorghen - Marbella Design School

I studied Graphic Design and went from having no knowledge at all on the subject to having my own freelance business today, which would not have been possible without the three years I spent at MDA! As well as the knowledge and skills that I gained during this time, I also met some wonderful people from all over the world and a very supportive team of teaching staff who motivated me to keep going when times were tough, believed in me and still keep in touch and show their interest in my journey despite graduating over a year ago.
If I could go back and do the three years all over again, I would!

Savannah Moorghen – United Kingdom

BA (Hons) in Graphic Design & Media

I had a wonderful experience at Marbella Design Academy. I learned so much and had the best time. I made wonderful friends and so enjoyed experiencing life in Monda. So special. The teachers were great and very helpful. If I could do it all again, I would! ???? I would not be where I am today without the graphic design course.

Bianca Germaux – Spain

BA (Hons) in Graphic Design & Media

Graphic Design, final year (3rd).
I chose Marbella Design Academy because the school is multicultural and offers a world class education in a congenial environment. Definitely the weather and live style that comes with it is great too.
I have just received some job offers waiting for me when I finish, so I look forward to my future.

Hafiz Rosli – Sweden

Graphic Design student

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Bachelor of Arts with Honours Validated Programme

Graphic Design
& Media

Our BA Accelerated programme is now open for registration